Posture Improving Garment

ABSTRACT

The garment is adapted to be worn by a wearer. The garment includes a main body portion. The main body portion is configured to be worn over at least a portion of the wearer&#39;s body. The main body portion includes first and second portions each defining a longitudinal axis and configured to extend toward a respective limb of the wearer so as to envelop a portion of a respective limb of the wearer. At least a portion of the first strap is releasably affixed to the main body portion, and at least a first grip layer is associated with the first portion. The first strap overlies the first grip layer. The first grip layer is configured to come into contact with a wearer&#39;s skin when the garment is worn.

RELATED APPLICATION

This is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/498,332,filed Jul. 6, 2009, entitled “Posture Improving Garment,” which isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to body mechanics and, moreparticularly, to posture improvement garments configured to be worn on auser's lower body and which are specifically adapted to improve theuser's body alignment or posture through the use of sensorimotorstimulation.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The importance of good posture is well known among health professionals.Posture generally refers to the alignment of the body and, morespecifically, to the relative static and dynamic positioning of the bodyand its limbs. Ideally, in a body exhibiting good posture, the spine hasno lateral curvature and the legs have little angulation in the kneesand ankles.

The effects of poor posture are well documented and include limitedrange of motion wherein muscles, such as the pectoral muscles in thechest, may be permanently shortened due to a hunched-over upper bodyposition. Other effects of poor posture include discomfort in the formof headaches at the base of the skull and pain in the shoulders, arms,and hands. Additionally, poor posture may lead to pain in the jaw due toa forward-head position, as well as decreased lung capacity due todecreased volume of the chest cavity and lungs. One of the most commonconsequences of poor posture is the onset of lower back pain which mayincrease with advancing age. Finally, a hunched-over upper body positionof poor posture can add years to one's appearance.

However, by assuming good posture, gravitational forces may be moreevenly distributed through the bones, ligaments and muscles of the body.Maintaining good posture is equally important during passive (static)activities such as sitting and standing, as well as during dynamicactivities such as walking, running, and lifting. Theoretically, theslight S-shape of the spine that is characteristic of good postureshould preferably be maintained during both static and dynamicactivities. Unfortunately, our increasingly sedentary lifestyle, whereinmany hours are spent sitting in front of a computer, driving anautomobile, or watching television, has an adverse effect on posture.Such static activities may result in forward protrusion of the head andneck, rounding of the thoracic and lumbar spine, stretching of thespinal ligaments and also causing abnormal tilting and rotation of thepelvis. This also puts added stress on the hips, joints and otherportions of the lower body. Such stretching gradually causes pain in theneck, upper back, lower back and hips and results in fatiguing of thebody's muscles and ligaments. Poor posture during dynamic activitiessuch as running and lifting results in inefficient body movements withincreased stress on muscles and ligaments.

Maintaining an awareness of proper posture during static and dynamicactivities may sometimes prevent overstressing of muscles and ligaments.In addition, maintaining an awareness of proper posture may traincertain muscles through muscle memory such that proper postureeventually becomes a habit. However, it is sometimes difficult tomaintain an awareness of proper posture during mentally challengingactivities such as working at a computer, or during physicallychallenging activities such as participating in aggressive sports.Physical therapists may utilize postural therapy to improve the postureof a patient. Such postural therapy may include techniques such asshoulder taping and breathing exercises. Conventional chiropractictechniques may utilize body manipulation and treatment to help keep thepatient's spine in alignment. However, the patient must take the timeand energy to visit the offices of a physical therapist or achiropractor in order to receive the needed postural therapy and/orchiropractic manipulation. Moreover, alternative treatments predictabletherapeutic response is achieved through cutaneous nerve stimulation, isoften overlooked as a method to improve the patient's posture.

As can be seen, there exists a need in the art for a device that isspecifically adapted to continuously train and develop certain bodymuscles such that the user's posture may be improved. In addition, thereexists a need in the art for a device that allows for developing suchmuscle training during static activities such as standing and sitting.In addition, there exists a need in the art for a device that discretelyallows for developing such muscle training during dynamic activitiessuch as walking, running and during other daily activities. Furthermore,there exists a need in the art for a device for improving the user'sposture that may be progressively adjusted in accordance with changes orimprovements in the user's posture over time. Finally, there exists aneed in the art for a device for improving the user's posture that maybe adjusted according to varying physiological parameters between usersincluding differences in user's age, body size, muscular development andunderlying pathophysiologic status.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is a posture improvement garment or device that isspecifically adapted to provide sensorimotor stimulation orproprioceptive awareness using a combination of gripping of the skin,pressure, torque and angle simultaneously applied to the user in orderto train body muscles for proper posture through muscle memory, similarto the shirt taught in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2009/0062704 (referred to herein as the “'704 publication”), theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. The devicecomprises a garment designed to be worn by a user and which is adaptedto envelop at least a portion of the user's lower body, including thelumbo-pelvic region, hips and at least a portion of the legs or lowerextremities. This garment is preferably configured like a pair of shortsor pants.

Pressure is applied to the user's skin in order to proprioceptivelystimulate cutaneous nerve receptors of the skin by configuring thegarment as a relatively tight, form-fitting pair of shorts. The garmentis adapted to envelop at least a portion of the user's lumbo-pelvicregion, hips and at least a portion of the legs or lower extremities.

The garment may be fabricated of a stretchable, yet taut material inorder to provide the desirable form-fitting feature such that specificpressure may be readily applied to the surface of the skin over specificanatomical landmarks for neuromuscular stimulation. In this regard, thegarment is preferably fabricated of elastomeric material that is alsopreferably breathable and/or which has moisture wicking capabilitiessuch as may be provided by a material comprised of a combination oflycra and spandex, Fabrifoam, nylon or the like.

The shorts/pants create a sensation/cue on the skin through the designthat specifically bends, compresses and directs the nerve receptors inthe skin (peripheral nervous system 20-80 nerve endings/square inch onskin, in muscles, tendons, joint lining, etc.) to be pulled in such away and in such a specific direction that tells the brain to instantlyrelax and lengthen specific, over used, under stretched muscles whilethe brain simultaneously commands the opposite (front to back and/orside to side), weak, under toned, under supportive muscles to contract,tone and support the wearer's core and lower extremities. This naturalreflexive response is known as reciprocal inhibition and this naturallybalancing muscle stimulation system retrains the wearer's muscles everytime the garment is put on to create a wearable, therapeutic short/pantthat decreases muscle and joint pain, improves recovery from training,travel and injury and improves aberrant biomechanics that create muscleimbalances. In a preferred embodiment, the desired cues and responsesare provided by a strap system that twists each leg in a spiral mannerto rotate the leg toward where the muscles are underused and weak.Spirals and spiral physiology are naturally occurring within the humanbody and nature as a whole and can all be related through the Fibonaccinumbers or Fibonacci structure. The Fibonacci numbers are nature'snumbering system. They appear everywhere in nature, from the leafarrangement in plants, to the pattern of the florets of a flower, thebracts of a pinecone, or the scales of a pineapple. The Fibonaccinumbers are therefore applicable to the growth of every living thing,including a single cell, a grain of wheat, a hive of bees, and evenhumans.

The Fibonacci sequence is 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, and so on.It begins with the number 1, and each new term from there is the sum ofthe previous two. The limit ratio between the terms is 0.618034 . . . ,an irrational number variously called the “golden ratio” and/or the“divine proportion,” but in this century more succinctly “PHI” (f) afterthe architect Phidias, who designed the Parthenon. In other words, anytwo adjoining numbers equal the next higher number. For example, 5+8=13.Any number divided by the next higher number gives a ratio of 0.618. Forexample, 8/13=0.618. Any number divided by the next lower number gives areciprocal of 1.618.

In the lower numbers the ratios are not exact, but close enough forpractical purposes. Both the Fibonacci Sequence and the Golden Ratioappear in natural forms ranging from the geometry of the DNA molecule(and the human body) to the physiology of plants and animals. In recentyears, science has taken a quantum leap in knowledge concerning theuniversal appearance and fundamental importance of Fibonaccimathematics. Some of history's greatest minds, from Pythagoras to IsaacNewton, have held phi (f) and the Fibonacci sequence in the highestesteem and reverence.

All human senses, including hearing, touch, taste, vision and painreceptors, have not only spiral physiology, but also response curvesthat are logarithmic (having a Fibonacci structure). Cellular actionmembrane potentials, which are important for muscles and the nervoussystem, have a voltage equal to the log of the ratio of the ionconcentration outside the cell to that of inside the cell. The brain andnervous systems are made from the same type of cellular building unitsand look similar microscopically, so the response curve of the centralnervous system is probably also logarithmic. This spiral/helicalphysiology is utilized by the design of the garment of the presentinvention. The straps extend about the axis of the legs or feet.

The design stimulates the sensorimotor system (sensori includes thenervous system combined with the (motor) musculoskeletal system),instantly cueing a wearer's lower body into muscular balance and idealanatomical alignment. This stimulates the user's anatomy on both aconscious and subconscious level. This instantly allows the wearer tomove with more biomechanical efficiency which means using less energywhile enhancing and optimizing body mechanics and gait. This has aneffect that decreases normal wear and tear on joints and enhanceshealthy circulation and recovery from training, travel, and injury.

It will be appreciated that virtually every time a user puts the garmenton, he/she is training. The garment makes weak muscles work. When a weakmuscle works it helps to balance the muscles so the body is using allsides to work with rhythm and synchrony making the body move with moreefficiency, greater fluidity and less effort.

In accordance with one preferred embodiment of the present invention,there is provided a garment adapted to be worn by a wearer. The garmentincludes a main body portion that is configured to be worn over at leasta portion of the wearer's lumbo-pelvic region, hips and at least aportion of the legs. The main body portion includes first and second legportions that each define an axis. The garment also includes at least afirst strap associated with the main body portion that is releasablyaffixed to the first leg portion, and at least a first grip layerassociated with the main body portion. The first strap overlies thefirst grip layer. The first grip layer is configured to come intocontact with a wearer's skin when the garment is worn. In a preferredembodiment, the first strap is positioned such that it extends in aspiral about the axis of the first leg portion. In a preferredembodiment, the first and second leg portions include a stirrupextending from the bottom thereof and an adjustable arch strap attachedat an upper end to the leg portion and at a lower end to the stirrup.Preferably, the stirrups each include a longitudinal arch support, atransverse arch support and a heel support.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, there is provided a garment adapted to be worn by a wearer.The garment includes a main body portion that is configured to be wornover at least a portion of the wearer's lumbo-pelvic region, hips and atleast a portion of the legs, wherein the main body portion includesfirst and second leg portions that each define an axis. The garment alsoincludes a strap system that includes a plurality of leg strapsreleasably affixed to the main body portion. Each of the leg strapsincludes at least one connector for affixing the leg strap to the mainbody portion. Each of the leg straps overlies a grip layer that isadapted to contact the wearer's skin when the garment is worn.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention, there is provided a method that includes donning a garmentthat covers at least a portion of the wearer's lumbo-pelvic region, hipsand at least a portion of the legs. The garment includes first andsecond leg portions that each define an axis. The method furtherincludes positioning a first strap on the first leg portion such that itextends in a spiral about the axis of the first leg portion, therebydefining a first spiral direction. The first strap overlies a first griplayer that is in contact with the skin on the wearer's leg and the firstgrip layer pulls the wearer's skin in the first spiral direction.

The invention, together with additional features and advantages thereof,may be best understood by reference to the following description takenin conjunction with the accompanying illustrative drawings. In theseaccompanying drawings, like reference numerals designate like partsthroughout the figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 a perspective view of a garment (pair of shorts) as worn by auser in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the garment of FIG. 1, showing one ofthe straps unaffixed;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the garment of FIG. 1, showing anotherone of the straps unaffixed;

FIG. 6 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1 inside outand showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 7 is a right side elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1 insideout and showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 8 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1 inside outand showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 9 is a cross-section taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 4, showing thefront strap portion over the connector layer, the base grip layer andthe user's skin;

FIG. 10 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1 with therear straps in a different position in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 1 with oneremovable strap in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a garment (three quarter length pants)in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 12 inside outand showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 16 is a right side elevational view of the garment of FIG. 12inside out and showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a garment (full length pants) inaccordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 17 inside outand showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 21 is a right side elevational view of the garment of FIG. 17inside out and showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a garment (pants with stirrups) inaccordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 23 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a rear elevational view of the garment of FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a front elevational view of the garment of FIG. 22 inside outand showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 26 is a right side elevational view of the garment of FIG. 22inside out and showing the grip layers on the inside thereof;

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of the garment of FIG. 22 with anadjustable arch strap shown on the left leg portion and stirrup;

FIG. 28 is a bottom perspective view of the stirrup of the garment ofFIG. 22 with the adjustable arch support;

FIG. 29 is an elevational view of an adjustable arch strap; and

FIGS. 30-32 is a series of elevational views of a foot showing nosupport (FIG. 30), the support provided by a stirrup (FIG. 31) and thesupport provided by a stirrup combined with an adjustable arch strap(FIG. 32).

Like numerals refer to like structures or features throughout theseveral views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As shown in the drawings, for purposes of illustration, preferredembodiments of posture improvement garments (shorts 10, three quarterlength pants 30, full length pants 40 and pants with stirrups 50) areshown and described. It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,”“back,” “top,” “bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” and“below” used herein are merely for ease of description and refer to theorientation of the components as shown in the figures. It should beunderstood that any orientation of the garments 10, 30, 40 or 50, andthe components thereof described herein is within the scope of thepresent invention.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein the showings are for purposes ofillustrating the present invention and not for purposes of limiting thesame, FIGS. 1-5 show the outside of a first embodiment of a postureimprovement garment 10, which is configured to be worn by a user 12 andwhich is configured to envelop at least a portion of the user'slumbo-pelvic region, hips and at least a portion of the legs or lowerextremities, collectively known as the core. In this regard, the garment10 is generally configured to be similar to one of a pair of shorts orpants (e.g., a pair of compression shorts or pants). While theillustrated garment 10 is designed as a “pull-up” style, the garment mayalso be provided with an open or partially open front, back or sideportion, which is selectively closeable by means of known garmentclosure systems, such as a zipper, buttons, snaps, and the like. Thegarment 10 includes a main body portion 13 that has a front 13 a, back13 b, right side 13 c and left side 13 d and first and second legportions 14 that each define an axis. In the appropriate embodiments ofthe different garments 10, 30, 40 and 50 described below, the first andsecond leg portion 14 each include an upper leg portion 14 a (garments10, 30, 40 and 50), lower leg portion 14 b (garments 30, 40 and 50),knee portion 14 c (garments 30, 40 and 50) and shin portion 14 d(garments 40 and 50).

Proprioceptive effects are achieved by the use of a strap system 100that includes strategically placed straps 16, stretch panels 18 and griplayers 20, integrated directly into or sewn together, or sewn directlyinto the material used to fabricate the garment 10. It will beunderstood that the grip layer 20 is essentially a layer or patch forcuing or stimulating the nerve receptors responsible for proprioceptivefeedforward and feedback. As a result, the garment of the presentinvention is particularly suited for the consumer market, as they areattractive and comfortable. It will be understood that the strap system100 can include straps that are adjustable and are affixed by the user,as shown in the figures or the strap system can include straps that areintegral with the garment (are not adjustable). In a preferredembodiment, the strap system 100 twists each leg in a spiral or helixmanner to rotate the leg toward where the muscles are underused andweak. As can be seen in the figures, the straps 16 on each of thegarments 10, 30, 40 and 50 are all positioned so that they extend in aspiral about the axis of the leg portions 14. The spiral or helix mayextend at any angle.

Regarding material from which the garment 10 may be fabricated, it ispreferred that the material be thin, and have an elastic quality thatstretches or moves with the user's body, in order to provide a desirableform-fitting feature such that pressure may be readily applied to thesurface of the user's skin in order to enhance neuromuscular stimulationthereto. The material may contain, but not be limited to, polyester,lycra, spandex, elastic, nylon, Fabrifoam® and the like, and ispreferably a combination of these materials for different portions ofthe garment, as described below. It may have metal ions woven into it,or other mechanical sweat wicking, temperature regulating materialswhich are known in the art and function in an equivalent way to regulatetemperature and wick moisture. Its breathability and/or moisture wickingcapabilities function to improve the user's comfort level duringperiodic wearing of the garment.

As shown in FIGS. 1-5, in a preferred embodiment, the strap system 100includes a plurality of leg straps 16 and two ab straps 17 (right andleft ab straps are referred to individually herein as 17 a and 17 brespectively). In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5, the straps 16 are asingle piece of material that each have an unattached front strapportion 16 a an anchor portion 16 b and an unattached rear strap portion16 c. However, it will be understood that the unattached front strapportion 16 a and unattached rear strap portion 16 c are basicallyindependent straps that can be affixed and unaffixed to the main bodyportion 13 as desired. The remainder of the garment is comprised of aseries of panels 18, that are preferably made of a four-way elasticmaterial. However, these panels do not have to be elastic.

FIGS. 6-8 show the garment 10 inside-out to illustrate the preferredarrangement or pattern of the base grip layers 20. The base grip layers20 are positioned underneath the straps 16 and 17. This can be seen bycomparing, for example, FIG. 2 to FIG. 6 to see that the base gripslayers 20 have the same configuration as the straps 16 and 17.Therefore, the straps 16 and 17 overly a grip layer 20. As shown inFIGS. 6-8 other baser grip layers 20 can be positioned at locationswhere they will not be underneath a strap (for example, see the side legand butt areas in FIG. 7). This may be for proprioceptive reasons or maybe to help prevent migration of the garment or for ease of manufacture.When the garment 10 is worn by a user 12, the base grip layer 20 is incontact with the skin. The base grip layer 20 is preferably made of amaterial that is tacky or provides grip on the skin for providing thedesired proprioceptive effects. In another embodiment, the entire layerthat is in contact with the skin can be a grip layer (i.e., made ofFabrifoam® or the like).

Referring once again to FIGS. 1-5, in a preferred embodiment, at leastthe unattached front and rear strap portions 16 a and 16 c of the legstraps 16 is positioned over a hook and loop or connector layer 22. Eachof the front and rear strap portions 16 a and 16 c has at least one andpreferably two hook and loop tabs or connectors 24 that allow the userto affix the straps portions 16 a and 16 c to the connector layer 22 andto adjust how much tension (or sensorimotor stimulation) on the muscleis comfortable, the specific direction of compression, and support, asdescribed more fully below. It will be understood that any type ofconnection between the front and rear strap portions 16 a and 16 c ofthe straps 16 and the connector layer 22 is within the scope of thepresent invention. For example, snaps, buttons, adhesive, hooks or thelike are also within the scope of the present invention. In anotherembodiment, the connector layer 22 can be omitted and the unaffixedstrap portions 16 a and 16 c can be connected directly to the base griplayer 20. As will be described more fully below, what is important isthat the strap 16 overlies and places tension on the base grip layer 20(which is in contact with the skin), which cues responses in the nervereceptors in the skin. FIG. 9 shows a cross section through the garment10 at line 9-9 of FIG. 4. FIG. 9 shows the various layers of the garment10 and, in particular, the grip layer 20 in contact with the skin andthe nerve receptors therein.

In a preferred embodiment, the straps 16 and 17 are fabricated of atwo-way elastic material, e.g., FABRIFOAM® or the like and, as discussedabove, each of the front and rear portions 16 a and 16 c include twohook and loop or connector tabs 24 (which provides a double anchorsystem). However, this is not a limitation on the present invention. Ina preferred embodiment, the anchor section 16 b of the leg straps 16 issewn (stitching is marked 16 d—e.g., see the lower left strap in FIG. 2)or otherwise permanently attached to the layer underneath. FIGS. 4 and 5illustrate one of the front strap portions 16 a when it is not attachedto the connector layer 22.

In use, after a user puts the garment 10 on, for each of the leg straps16, the user pulls the unaffixed front strap portion 16 a and connectsthe first hook and loop tab 24 to the connector layer 22 and then pullsthe remainder of the unaffixed front strap portion 16 a and connects thesecond hook and loop tab 24 to the connector layer 22. This is thenrepeated for each of the rear strap portions 16 b. In a preferredembodiment, the back leg strap portions 16 c are anchored first.However, this is not a limitation on the present invention.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the muscles inthe outside of a human's leg generally become dominant, short and tightfrom overuse and understretch and the body tends to rotate towardtension, thereby causing external rotation of the hip, lower leg andfoot, increasing pronation, and serial distortion. All of theseimbalances in the muscles that cause this motion collectively createwhat is known as lower crossed syndrome. For instance, this increasedpronation and valgus stress on the knees causes increased stress onjoint surfaces and neuromuscular structures including mechanoreceptorsand nociceptors within the joint and surrounding soft tissues. Thepresent invention helps derotate the lower extremities and return to amore optimal anatomically neutral and functionally balanced position.When the leg straps 16 are connected as described above (as shown inFIG. 2), the anchor portion 16 b or 16 d creates a base or anchor, andthe two-way stretch causes the leg to rotate or return to the inner leg,where the muscles are underused and weak. This is illustrated by thearrows on straps 16 in FIGS. 2, 3 and 10. The arrows show that the frontand rear strap portions 16 a and 16 c (generally, straps 16) have adirectional influence on the body of the user 12. It forces the user touse underused muscles while the overused muscles are held in a positionthat causes them to stretch, relax and unload the joints of the hip,lower back, knee, etc. This is what unloads the pressure and stress fromthe joints and places it back into a more physiologically capablebalance of human muscle and joint function. The overtoned/overusedmuscles include, for example, the gluteus medius, the vastus lateralus,tensor fascia lata, psoas, illicus, piriformis. The undertoned/underusedmuscles include, for example, gracilas, pecitinious, adductor brevis,adductor longus and vmo.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the strappingsystem 100 is based upon the concept of a concentration gradient,meaning that the straps 16 always pull back toward the larger anchorportion 16 b, which is the greater mass of like material, or the seem 16d, which anchors the straps 16 to the main body portion 13. In otherwords, in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5, the anchor portion 16 bincludes a greater amount of like material than does either the frontstrap portion 16 a or the rear strap portion 16 c. It is not alimitation that the anchor portion 16 b include more material (as is thecase when the anchor is simply a seem 16 d or the like). However, theconcentration gradient is more effective if it does. The concept worksbest when there is more anchored material than loose material and whenthe materials are the same and include a two-way stretch.

The ab straps 16 also work via a concentration gradient. As is shown inFIGS. 4-5, for a right handed user, the left ab strap 17 b is placedunderneath lightly and the right ab strap 17 a is positioned thereoverwith more pull. This helps de-rotate the right hip back into a neutralanatomical position and helps prevent predictable antiversion of, forexample, the right hip on right handed person. As is shown in FIGS. 1-2,for a left handed user, the right ab strap 17 a is placed underneathlightly and the left ab strap 17 b is positioned thereover with morepull. This helps de-rotate the left hip back into a neutral anatomicalposition. One of skill in the art will understand that the top strapcues the lower abs to fire and de-rotates the pelvis and shuts off orrelaxes the overtoned/inhibited hip flexors. In order to achieve this,in a preferred embodiment, the right and left ab straps 17 a and 17 binclude hook and loop tabs or connectors 24 on both the top and bottomthereof.

It will be understood that the strap system 100 can be modified in otherembodiments of the garment. Although four leg straps 16 and one ab strap17 (and corresponding base grip layers 20) are shown in the embodimentof FIGS. 1-9, any number of such straps 16 and 17 and of various shapesand sizes, may be employed if desired. For example, the strap system 100may include more or less than four straps or the straps may only includeunaffixed front strap portions, unaffixed rear strap portions or acombination of both. In another embodiment, the straps can be a four-wayelastic or a non-elastic material, and/or can include only a singleconnector tab 24. It will be understood that any embodiment thatincludes a base grip layer against the skin and a strap positionedthereover is within the scope of the present invention. For example, anembodiment can include a pair of form fitting shorts that include a basegrip layer inside that contacts the skin and straps on the outside. Thestraps 16 and 17, together with the base grip layers 20 function tostimulate muscles that are too tight (the straps/grip layers willstretch these muscles), or too loose and undertoned (the straps/griplayers will add tone to these muscles and encourage/stimulate them towork).

It will be understood that different embodiments or versions of theshorts can be provided for different users and for different conditionsto be corrected. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5 has the rear strapportions 16c extending from the groin toward the back of the leg orhamstring. FIG. 10 shows another preferred embodiment of the garment 10,where the rear straps 16 c are anchored on the rear of the leg portions14 and extend from the rear of the leg portion 14 (adjacent thehamstring) and toward the groin. It will be understood that the griplayer pattern for this version of the garment can be similar to thatshown in FIG. 6-8.

FIG. 11 shows a garment 10 similar to that shown in FIGS. 1-5, exceptthat it includes one removable strap 26. In FIG. 11, the removable strap26 has one end unattached and the other end attached. The removablestrap 26 includes hook and loop tabs or connectors 24 on both endsthereof and can include connectors 24 anywhere along its length to keepthe strap 26 attached to the garment 10 as desired. The removablestrap(s) 26 provide greater adjustability than straps that arepermanently anchored to the garment 10.

FIGS. 12-16 show another preferred embodiment of a garment 30. In thisembodiment of the present invention the garment 30 is a three quarterlength pair of pants that extend just below a wearer's knee. It will beunderstood that the portion of the garment 30 above the knees is thesame as the garment 10 described above. Therefore, only the portion ofthe garment 30 that is different will be described.

Just below the knee, the garment 30 includes at least one sub-patellastrap 16. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12-14, each leg portion 14 ofthe garment 30 includes two sub-patella straps 16, one that extends fromthe midline of medial aspect of the knee joint and extends aroundlaterally and ending at the lateral posterior aspect of the proximalhead of the fibula. Generally, it extends from the inner leg around thefront. The other strap 16 extends from the midline superior posterioraspect of the trisceps surae (calf muscles) and toward the inner leg.Generally, it extends from the middle of the back of the leg toward theinner leg. As shown, the sub-patella strap 16 on the back of the leg ispreferably positioned about an inch below the joint line. As can be seenin FIG. 14, the sub-patella straps extend at an angle and in a spiraldirection about the axis of the leg portion 14. FIGS. 15-16 show thegarment 30 inside-out to illustrate the preferred arrangement or patternof the base grip layers 20. It will be understood that the grip layers20 may or may not have a spiral shape to them. In an embodiment wherethe spiral is important, it only matters that the corresponding straps16 have the spiral shape and that they overly a grip layer 20. In apreferred embodiment, these straps 16 in combination with the griplayers 20 cause reciprocal inhibition by creating traction anddirectional compression over cutaneous neuro receptors from lateral(posterior-lateral proximal head of fibula which is an area extremelydense with sensitive nerve receptors/golgi tendon organs and where manytendons attach) to medial commonly weaker, less supportive, lesscoordinated and less reactive to stress) causing muscles of wearer'smedial thigh and lower leg to contract, tone, balance and optimallyalign, adding instant and improved sensory motor support and stabilityto the knee and lower extremity as a whole because the muscles (dynamicsupport system) now function with rhythm and synchrony and unload themechanical stress that often pre loads a joint, decreases it's range ofmotion and function and makes it susceptible to injury of the wear andtear and traumatic nature.

FIGS. 17-21 show another preferred embodiment of a garment 40. In thisembodiment of the present invention, the garment 40 is a full lengthpair of pants that extend to a point just above a wearer's foot. It willbe understood that the majority of the garment 40 is the same as thegarment 30 described above. Therefore, only the portion of the garment40 that is different will be described.

In a preferred embodiment, the garment 40 includes at least one shin ortibia strap 16, and preferably a pair of shin straps 16. In theembodiment shown in FIGS. 17-19, each leg portion 14 of the garment 40includes two shin straps 16. In a preferred embodiment, the shin straps16 on each leg portion 14 extend from the middle of the front of theshin at the tibia and around the inside and outside of the shin,respectively, and toward the back of the leg (on both leg portions 14).However, the placement or location of the stitching 16 d or anchor isnot a limitation on the present invention. As can be seen in FIG. 18,the shin straps 16 extend in a spiral manner. FIGS. 20-21 show thegarment 40 inside-out to illustrate the preferred arrangement or patternof the base grip layers 20. In a preferred embodiment, these shin straps16 in combination with the grip layers allow the wearer to adjust andcontrol lower leg internal and external rotation (duck walk or oppositegait known as pigeon toe). Many people are either lower extremity gaitpronators (90+% of the population) or a supinator. The shin strap 16allows the wearer to help correct these problems and to adjust andcontrol lower leg internal and external rotation as desired. This helpsdecrease serial distortion caused by over pronation or over supination.The tibia strap 16 helps prevent midial tibial torsion syndrome (shinsplints), high ankle sprains and peroneal tendonopathy. In an embodimentof the invention, as shown in FIG. 17, between the sub-patella straps 16and the shin straps 16, the lower leg portion 14 b can include twodifferent materials, a two-stretch material portion 19 on the front andthe normal stretch panel 18 on the back. However, this is not alimitation and this entire portion of the pants can also be made offour-way stretch panel 18 or two-way stretch material 19.

FIGS. 22-32 show another preferred embodiment of a garment 50. In thisembodiment of the present invention the garment 50 is a full length pairof pants that includes stirrups 52 that at least partially surround awearer's foot. It will be understood that the majority of the garment 50is the same as the garment 40 described above. Therefore, only theportion of the garment 50 that is different will be described. FIGS.25-26 show the garment 50 inside-out to illustrate the preferredarrangement or pattern of the base grip layers 20.

In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 22-24, each leg portion 14of the garment 50 includes a stirrup 52. The arch stirrup 52 supportsand adds a suspension system that supports the wearer's heel (a naturalfat pad) and the longitudinal and transverse arches of the foot. Thesupport by the stirrup 52 elevates and stimulates the sensory motorsystem through the cutaneous nerve receptors in the bottom of the feetthat are in numbers up to four times greater than most other parts ofthe human body.

As shown in FIG. 22 and the stirrup 52 preferably includes a heelsupport 54, a longitudinal arch support 56, a transverse arch support 58and an adjustable arch strap 60. Together, these components allcooperate to define a space where the wearer's foot fits. The componentsof the stirrup 52 are preferably made of a grip material or layer, suchas Fabrifoam®.

The longitudinal arch support 56 preferably mimics the function of anormal, toned posterior tibialis muscle that when functioning normally,naturally adds tone, support and lift to the longitudinal arch of thefoot by lifting the arch from inferior to superior direction.

In a preferred embodiment, the heel support 54 preferably acts as abaffle to add support and continuity to the natural shock absorber inthe heel of the foot. The heel support 54 creates a “fat pad dam” thatallows the fat pad to stay full and not flatten out which helps the footbetter absorb shock and pounding that occurs during very common abnormalgait patterns such as over pronating produces. Over time it is commonfor the natural ligamentous baffle to fail, causing the fat pad tocompress, spread out and lose its shock absorbing capability. The heelsupport 54 helps control and concentrate the shape and efficacy of thepad so its function can be at its optimum.

In a preferred embodiment, the transverse arch support 58 includes twomembers that criss-cross as best shown in FIG. 22 The criss-crosspattern takes advantage of the spiral/helix features discussed above.The transverse arch support 58 supports under and across the midfoot atthe transverse arch adding suspension and support of the foot duringpronation, supination, inversion and eversion.

The adjustable arch strap 60 (shown in FIGS. 27, 28 and 32) includesconnectors 24 (preferably hook and loop tabs) at the opposite endsthereof. This allows the strap 60 to be connected at or near the shinstraps 16 and the bottom of strap 60 is attached under the mid line ofthe longitudinal arch, as shown in FIGS. 27 and 28. The wearer canadjust the strap 60 based upon how much arch support the wearer desires.The further up the leg the strap 60 is attached, the more lift isaccomplished. In a preferred embodiment, the strap 60 includes doubleanchors or connectors 24, as is shown in FIG. 29. However, this is not alimitation on the present invention. In use, the upper end of the strap60 is preferably attached first and then the bottom or lower end of thestrap 60 is attached under the longitudinal arch. In a preferredembodiment, the arch strap 60 is connected at or near the natural originof the posterior tibialis. As shown in the figures, the longitudinalarch support 56 includes a connector layer 22 thereon for connecting thearch strap 60 as desired. It will be understood that the entire stirrup52 can have a connector layer 22 on the outside thereof for connectingstraps 60 as desired.

FIGS. 30-32 show a series of elevational views of a wearer's foot. FIG.30 shows a foot without any support. This is a typical case of a flatarch with undertoned muscles. As can be seen in FIG. 31, using thestirrup 52, the arch support 56 provides support and lifts the arch ofthe foot. As shown in FIG. 32, the addition of the adjustable arch strap60 provides even further lift and support to the arch of the foot. Itwill be appreciated that these figures show the stirrup without anyVelcro or connector layer on the outside 22, except on the longitudinalarch support 56.

In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the garments 10, 30,40 and 50 are made of a plurality of pieces that are sewn together. Itwill be understood that the two-way stretch portions of the garments aremade of Fabrifoam® with a layer of female hook and loop connectormaterial on the opposite side. These are the grip and connector layersand are apparent by comparing the figures showing the outside of thegarment to the figures showing the inside—the grip layers 20 correspondto the Velcro connector layers 22 (e.g., compare FIG. 2 to FIG. 6 orcompare FIG. 3 to FIG. 8). The leg straps 16, ab straps 17, adjustablearch strap 60 and stirrup 52 are also made of this material. The 4-waystretch pieces or panels 18 are made of nylon. All of the pieces aresewn together to make the garment. It will be understood that thisconstruction is only exemplary and not intended to be a limitation onthe present invention.

Generally, in use, the stirrup 52 decreases over pronation, flat feet,serial distortion and/or other common mechanical and sensory motormuscular imbalances that can cause abnormal gait and movement pattern(wear and tear) pathology both locally in the lower extremities andglobally, throughout the body's neuromusculoskeletal system. The stirrup52 decreases stress on the joints by cuing proprioception andsynchronizing the correct, optimal muscles and their firing patterns andretrains the muscles to better dynamically support structures thatnormally help displace weight and allow the wearer to move smoothly andefficiently. It will be understood that it is within the scope of thepresent invention to include any of the components of the stirrup 52 invarious embodiments of the present invention. For example, only thelongitudinal arch support may be included. In another embodiment, onlythe heel support may be included. In another embodiment, the adjustablearch strap may be permanently attached to the leg portion at one end.

Other embodiments may just include straps on the lower leg portions 14b. In other embodiments, viscoelastic tape can be disposed in certainportions of the garment for the purpose of preventing migration of thegarment. Alternative means for providing a tacky surface for contactingthe user's skin may also be used. It will understood that anycombination of straps is within the scope of the present invention. Inanother embodiment, the garment may omit the straps and just includestirrups or may just include ab straps and stirrups.

In another preferred embodiment, the garment 10, 30, 40 or 50 mayinclude neuro nubs, similar to those disclosed in the '704 publication.These neuro nubs preferably comprise soft, tacky bumps, or cutaneousnerve receptor stimulators, which are designed to provide a massaging,stimulating effect when the user moves. In general, patterns of suchneuro nubs are helpful in creating proprioceptive stimulation, and alsofunction to provide decreased migration of the garment as the body movesthroughout its full range of motion. They are disposed at specific areason the inside surface of the garment, to stimulate cutaneous nervereceptors in the skin and soft tissue structures to enhance “noise” thatcreates cues to the brain, enhancing muscle balance, body positionawareness, posture, function, and performance.

Desired locations of the neuro nubs are at known acupuncture sites, asstimulation of these specific energy meridians enhances blood flow andstimulates normal physiology to organs and soft tissues that supplymovement, support, and information crucial to those seeking optimalhealth and function. However, this is not a limitation on the presentinvention.

Conventional approaches to date have focused on mechanical supportsystems that have been shown to create atrophy and a reliance on abrace, which in the long term can create a system of dependence that theinventor believes is detrimental to optimal health and efficientrecovery and performance. The straps together with the grip layers,create specific traction and tactile stimulation of cutaneous nerves inthe skin. There are a minimum of 20,000 of such nerves per square inchof skin that will transfer specific information to the receptors(mechanoreceptors/nociceptors) that exist by the thousands/millions inthe muscle, tendon, ligament, and joint surfaces, causing a predictableunloading of specific, predictable and common muscle imbalances thatcreate and perpetuate joint stress and injury throughout the body.

Proprioceptive viscoelastic pads may optionally be employed in each ofthe illustrated embodiments, on the inside surface thereof, eitherpermanently or releasably mounted thereto, for contacting the user'sskin at strategic acupuncture meridian points or other locations inorder to increase the proprioceptive effect of the garment. These pads,preferably made of silicone, have a skin-contacting surface which isgrooved or otherwise modified to improve tactile response, using anacupuncture-type approach. The pressure generated by the garment 10, 30,40 or 50 creates an acupressure effect. The strategic locations andnumbers of pads may be varied in accordance with specific therapeuticobjectives.

Essentially, the garment of the invention functions to create anexoskeleton for the user's lower body, thereby allowing for the sensorymotor stimulation or proprioceptive awareness of strategic regions.Increased pressure is applied to these strategic body regions to performthe advantageous sensory motor stimulation or proprioceptive retrainingor awareness. Prior art approaches involved mechanical treatment, i.e.physically manipulating portions of the body to desired configurationsand limiting all range of motion including the healthy range of motionor non-injured muscles, which, over time, weakens muscles and makes thewearer dependent and decreases proprioception. This modern inventiveapproach instead induces a nervous system response through theapplication of strategic sensory motor stimulation and proprioceptiveretraining and cuing and allows uninjured muscles to continue to move inthe healthy range of motion, even during recovery. Accordingly, thegarment provides advantageous effects for injured and uninjured wearersalike.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms usedherein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

1. A garment adapted to be worn by a wearer, the garment comprising: amain body portion, wherein the main body portion is configured to beworn over at least a portion of the wearer's body, wherein the main bodyportion includes first and second portions each defining a longitudinalaxis and configured to extend along a respective limb of the wearer soas to envelop a portion of a respective limb of the wearer, at least afirst strap associated with the main body portion, wherein at least aportion of the first strap is releasably affixed to the main bodyportion, and at least a first grip layer associated with the firstportion, wherein the first strap overlies the first grip layer, andwherein the first grip layer is configured to come into contact with awearer's skin when the garment is worn.
 2. The garment of claim 1,wherein the first strap is positioned such that it extends in a spiralabout the longitudinal axis of the first portion.
 3. The garment ofclaim 1, wherein the first strap has a first end that is permanentlyaffixed to the main body portion and a second end that is temporarilyaffixed to the main body portion by a first connector.
 4. The garment ofclaim 3, wherein the first strap includes a second connector locatedbetween the first connector and the second end.
 5. The garment of claim4, wherein the first and second connectors are hook and loop connectorsand wherein the first portion includes corresponding hook and loopconnectors for affixing the first and second connectors of the firststrap to the first portion.
 6. The garment of claim 1, furthercomprising first and second ab straps associated with the main bodyportion.
 7. The garment of claim 6, wherein the first and second abstraps each have a front surface and a back surface that have aconnector thereon, whereby the first and second ab straps can beconnected with the first ab strap on top or the second ab strap on top.8. A method comprising the steps of: donning a garment that covers atleast a portion of the wearer's body and at least a portion of thewearer's limb, wherein the garment includes first and second portionseach defining a longitudinal axis and configured to extend toward arespective limb of the wearer so as to envelop a substantial portion ofa respective upper portion of the respective limb, and positioning afirst strap on the first portion such that it extends in a spiral aboutthe longitudinal axis of the first portion, thereby defining a firstspiral direction, wherein the first strap overlies a first grip layerthat is in contact with the skin on the wearer's limb, and wherein thefirst grip layer pulls the wearer's skin in the first spiral direction.9. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of positioning asecond strap on the second portion such that it extends in a spiralabout the longitudinal axis of the second portion, thereby defining asecond spiral direction, wherein the second strap overlies a second griplayer that is in contact with the skin on the wearer's limb, and whereinthe second grip layer pulls the wearer's skin in the second spiraldirection.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first and secondportions each include an upper portion and a lower portion, wherein thefirst and second straps are positioned on the upper portions of thefirst and second portions, respectively, wherein the method furthercomprises positioning third and fourth straps on the lower portions ofthe first and second portions, respectively, wherein the third andfourth straps are configured to overlie third and fourth grip layersthat are in contact with the skin on the wearer's limb.
 11. The methodof claim 8, further comprising the step of connecting a first ab strapto a second ab strap.